Paraffin heater. This is a portable heater that is fuelled by the fossil fuel paraffin (also called paraffin oil and kerosene). The fuel is contained in the lower part of the heater (red). During operation of the heater, the fuel is pre-heated internally and emerges as a gas through the holes in the burner (top). It is this gas that is ignited to produce the flame and heat. As with all fossil fuel heaters, this is a potential carbon monoxide (CO) hazard. To avoid poisoning from CO fumes, the paraffin heater should be operated in a well-ventilated area. Photographed in the UK.